For several, starting a career in data science can be a rewarding move that could result in high growth with a comparatively small investment. If you’re thinking this path might be the right one for you, the next question to answer is: what are the initial steps you’ll need to take? Here, we have some tips on how to become a data scientist, so you can get yourself to the next stage in your new career!
Learn more about the job
Before you dive right in and enroll in a data science training program, you’ll want to be sure that the career you’re investing in is a good fit. After all, you don’t want to put in time, money, and energy into a whole new job, only to discover later that it’s not compatible with your needs! Are you good at gathering and analyzing data? Would you enjoy working a desk job? Do the expected salaries, benefits, and hours of your job prospects match your financial and lifestyle goals? Ask questions about what a typical workday will look like, as well as what you want for yourself, so you can be sure everything’s aligned.
Research data science programs
Once you’re confident you’re on the right path, the next step in how to become a data scientist is finding the education that works best for you — and in this case, it’s not one-size-fits-all. Maybe your goal is to get an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree, or perhaps a better choice for you is a shorter-term, less expensive technical program. Maybe an online or self-paced course fits great into your schedule and learning style, or you might need in-person or more structured settings in order to thrive. Explore all of the programs in your area and research each one to narrow down your top options.
Make sure to read online reviews from various sources; compare course descriptions, schedules, and costs; and if possible talk to instructors and administrators or even current and former students. It’s also a good idea to check if they have any career assistance available for students and alumni. This way, you can be confident you’re receiving the biggest benefit for the tuition cost.
Figure out how to pay for it
In many people’s cases, their best option is to pay upfront. However, that’s not necessarily viable for everyone. If you’ve decided that it would be better instead to break up tuition payments, check to see what alternative payment methods are available for your program. Ask your school administrators if they provide any other payment opportunities for their students, and also check out third parties as well. You might be able to use a payment plan or a student loan — there may even be scholarship, grant, or employer reimbursement opportunities available.
At Climb, we partner with several data science schools to provide various payment options for their students. Click the link below to see if we partner with your school and to learn more about what we can offer!
Get excited for the next chapter in your life
While learning new skills and starting fresh in a different career may be daunting, it can also be exciting! Whether you’re taking on your very first job, or switching to this area of tech from an entirely separate field, now that you know how to become a data scientist, it’s time to enjoy the path you’re on and to get ready for great things in store.
